Let’s face it: Keeping up with Google’s core updates can sometimes feel like you’re reading a mystery
novel where the plot twists just keep coming! As of April 19th, the latest update has rolled out, and it’s
packed with important changes that could affect your site’s visibility and performance.
So, why does Google keep tweaking things? Well, it’s not just about improving search results or user
experiences. Yes, those are on the agenda, but a peek into some internal emails released by the DOJ
shows that revenue generation might be steering the ship. In fact, previous updates have intentionally
dipped search quality to boost the bottom line.
This latest update, the March 2024 Core Update, was a wake-up call for many. Sites heavy on old-school
tricks like keyword stuffing, minimal content, or sneaky private blog networks (PBNs) took the hardest hits.
But it wasn’t just about penalizing the bad. Google has set its sights on:
- Curbing manipulative SEO practices.
- Improving user experiences on sites, especially those with sluggish load times or pesky, intrusive ads.
- Encouraging content that meets user needs over merely echoing search queries.
Why should you care? Because now, more than ever, it’s crucial to align your site with Google’s vision of
valuable, user-focused content. Unsure where to start? Here’s your game plan for bouncing back:
- Dive into Google’s Guidelines: Review the Search Quality Rater Guidelines for what Google
considers top-notch content. - Prioritize Your Audience: Develop content that addresses the real and pressing needs of your users.
- Quality Over Quantity: Invest in well-researched and insightful content that brings value to those
who find it. - Smooth Sailing User Experience: Make your site a breeze to navigate, quick to load, and easy on
the eyes with minimal ads. - Earn Trustworthy Links: Build your backlink profile naturally with links from respected and relevant
sources. - Keep Tabs on Performance: Regularly check how your site measures up in rankings and
engagement, and tweak as needed.
Recovering from a core update isn’t an overnight fix; it requires time, patience, and continuous effort.
Remember, the goal is to build and maintain Google’s trust in your site. While few have fully recovered
from recent updates, consistent dedication to these practices offers the best path forward.
If you have been affected by this update and require assistance, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with
our support team.